FIA Imposes Public Service on Max Verstappen for Press Conference Swearing: A Clash of Language and Policy

FIA issues decision on Max Verstappen's use of profanity during a press conference

Max Verstappen defended himself by stating that the term is commonly used and that English is not his first language

Max Verstappen has been assigned a task of carrying out community service by the FIA following his use of inappropriate language during a press conference.

A stewards' announcement released shortly after the start of Friday's practice session at the Singapore Grand Prix stated that Verstappen was suspected of violating Article 12.2.1.k of the International Sporting Code. This rule pertains to the "language used during the FIA Thursday driver press conference."

During the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Verstappen described his Red Bull car as "messed up," leading press conference moderator Tom Clarkson to apologize for the language used.

The FIA ruling

The FIA's ruling requires them to complete a task that benefits the community.

The explanation was given: "The Stewards listened to the driver of Car 1 (Max Verstappen) and a team representative, and also checked the audio transcript. The FIA's policy is to guarantee that the language used in its public settings, like press conferences, aligns with generally accepted norms suitable for all viewers and listeners.

This is especially applicable to comments from World Championship participants, who serve as role models both within and beyond the sport.

"This is evident in the FIA's rules and has been further emphasized by past incidents reviewed by the Formula One Stewards, especially in Las Vegas in 2023."

The Stewards examined the transcript from the FIA Driver Press Conference held on Thursday in Singapore. During this conference, Max Verstappen, the driver of car number 1, used language to describe his vehicle at the Azerbaijan event that is typically seen as "vulgar" or potentially "offensive," and is deemed inappropriate for broadcasting. This behavior constitutes "Misconduct" under Article 20 of the International Sporting Code and violates Article 12.2.1.k.

The Stewards observed that the term was not aimed at any individual or group. When called before the Stewards, the driver clarified that the word is a common part of everyday language as he understands it, given that English is not his first language.

Although the Stewards acknowledge that this might be accurate, it is crucial for role models to be cautious when addressing public audiences, especially when not facing significant stress. Verstappen issued an apology for his actions.

"The Stewards observe that substantial penalties are usually imposed for language that insults or targets particular groups. However, that is not applicable in this situation."

"Given that this issue has been addressed in the past and is familiar to the competitors, the Stewards decided to impose a stricter penalty than before. They ruled that Verstappen must 'perform some work of public interest' in accordance with Article 12.4.1.d of the International Sporting Code, in collaboration with the FIA's Secretary General for Sport."

Participants are reminded that they can challenge specific rulings made by the Stewards. This must be done following Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Chapter 4 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules, and it must be within the set time frame.

"The Stewards make their decisions independently from the FIA, relying exclusively on the applicable rules, guidelines, and the evidence provided."

FIA Cracks Down on Swearing

This follows news that FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is making efforts to eliminate drivers' use of profanity on team radio.

When questioned about his opinion on the FIA's position regarding the use of offensive language, the Dutch driver commented: "I suppose the world is evolving somewhat, but I believe it begins with simply not airing it or preventing people from having the chance to hear it in the first place."

Certainly, there are numerous applications available where individuals can tune into radio broadcasts and similar content. It's likely necessary to impose some restrictions or introduce a slight delay to allow for the censoring of certain language. This approach would be far more effective than imposing penalties on drivers. For instance, I wasn't even allowed to utter the f-word, which, in my opinion, isn't particularly offensive.

"The car was broken, it was totally messed up. Sorry for the strong language, but seriously, are we acting like little kids?"

"Even young children, aged five or six, will end up using swear words eventually, regardless of their parents' prohibitions. As they get older, they'll pick up swearing from their friends. Essentially, this situation remains unchanged."

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